According to a recent survey, women spend 34 hours a week working (so little? Define work) but many of us have problems finding the right clothes. Not so sexy that we give the office lech the wrong idea, but not sacks either. From July 2-8, McArthurGlen Designer Outlets will team up with the women's charity Dress for Success (dressforsuccess.org.uk) to host the first National Woman's Workwear Week (mcarthurglen.com/workwearweek), with panels of recruitment advisers and workwear style consultations in its outlets.

- Nothing projects professionalism better than a tailored trouser or skirt suit with a strong silhouette. (Ensure it fits properly.)
- Personalise your outfit, without drawing attention from what you're saying, with a colourful or textured blouse, rather than outlandish shoes or cleavage.
- Avoid distracting jewellery. (This isn't a fashion show. Unless it's a fashion job: then it's a fashion show.)
- Wear shoes you can walk in. (Polish and check for scuffs.)
- Buy suits that work as separates to maximise every item.
- Softer shoulder shapes are more appropriate for negotiations, as they communicate a message of win/win to everyone in the room.